A renewable energy generator has launched a proposal for a wind farm made up of 28 turbines in north-west Powys.

An early-stage informal consultation for a 28-turbine wind farm in Llanbrynmair Forest has started, with organisers saying that the project could capable of generating power for to the needs of 179,000 households.

This proposal replaces a previous application which was withdrawn in 2020 after some opposition from campaign groups, while plans for the project date back to 2008.

The proposal, called Carnedd Wen Wind Farm, has been put together by RWE and began its consultation on November 6. This three-week phase is set to be the first of two consultation rounds as RWE is looking to hear from the community on different aspects of the scheme.

Jennifer Pearson, Project Lead for RWE, said: “Wales and Powys both have ambitious targets for renewable energy generation, which Carnedd Wen Wind Farm has the potential to make a significant contribution towards.


MORE ON THIS SUBJECT


“Although a number of aspects may change during the course of development our proposals are now at a point where we are able to share information on the project and seek views from local communities.

“Throughout this three-week period, I encourage individuals to read about our initial plans, speak with members of the team either via phone, e-mail or at our in-person events, and let us know their thoughts.”

RWE is the largest power producer in Wales and a leading generator of power in the UK, with a wide range of renewable energy resources, which includes both onshore and offshore wind.

The company’s existing renewable energy projects currently make up one third of all renewable energy production in Wales, which is enough to power 550,000 homes.

RWE also employs around 350 people in Wales, based at its development office in Baglan and at operational sites in Pembroke, Llandarcy, Port of Mostyn and Dolgarrog.

As well as this latest project in Powys, the company is also developing plans for onshore wind farms at Gaerwen and Alwen Forest in north Wales and Abertillery and Pen March in south Wales, in addition to the Awel y Môr Offshore Wind Farm, and the Craig y Perthi Solar Farm near Newport.

The consultation is to run from November 6 to November 27, with two in-person events taking place, one on November 22 in Llanbrynmair and on November 23 in Llanerfyl.